AFTER a triumphant debut earlier this year, father and daughter duo Generation Gap will return to the Arts Centre for an eclectic showcase of seasonal favourites and chart-topping hits.

Back by popular demand, Clarry Bean and Abby Mansi will perform their signature blend of traditional songs and pop and rock classics on Saturday.

“We did our first big show in February and it sold out so we thought it would be nice to do a Christmas show together,” said Clarry.

“It’s going to be traditional Christmas songs but we will mix it up a bit. And people will be given the opportunity to sing along.

“We will also have guests: the Songbirds, the Tanwood choir and dancers. We are really looking forward to it.”

Nothing could have foretold the story of their success, especially Abby’s early years.

Try as she might the tone-deaf child was the odd one out of the pack, unable to carry a tune or join in sing-alongs at home.

With time and to her parents’ astonishment, she eventually found her voice.

“She got into her teens and she found the most amazing voice,” added the 58-year-old.

After studying musical theatre and drama at Carlisle University and performing around the world, Abby, 25, married and returned to Swindon where she is now musical director for choir BigSingThing and singing ensemble The Songbirds.

She is also musical theatre tutor at Tanwood School.

Her homecoming coincided with her father’s decision to retire from his role as Swindon Arts Centre manager. This is when the idea of forming Generation Gap emerged.

Generation Gap’s Christmas Show will start at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £12. Concession tickets are £10. To book go to swindontheatres.co.uk or call 01793 524481.

– MARION SAUVEBOIS